BLM Proposes a Designated Mountain Bike Trail System North of Billings

BILLINGS, MT – The BLM is proposing to designate a trail system for mountain bike enthusiasts in the Acton Recreation Area, nearly 20 miles north of Billings.

After a spike in mountain bike activity in the area, the BLM Billings Field Office began seeking more biking options for the local community that also discourage the creation of illegal trails on public lands. As a result, the BLM is proposing to amend the existing travel management plan for the Acton Recreation Area to formally designate and improve an existing non-motorized trail system that has slowly developed over the years.

The BLM and individuals from the local biking community worked together to develop the proposal for the trail system. “Our hope is that the designated trail system will provide a better experience for the mountain bike community, while better protecting the natural resources in the area,” says Billings Assistant Field Manager Craig Drake.

Before moving forward, the BLM analyzed potential impacts of the project in an Environmental Assessment (EA). The EA is now available for a 15-day comment period, ending May 30, and the public is encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed project.

Those providing comments are advised that before including address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information, that their entire comment – including personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While those commenting can ask in their comments to withhold personal identifying information from public review, the BLM cannot guarantee that they will be able to do so.

For more information about the proposal, contact Craig Drake at (406) 896-5349.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, the most of any Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of Americas public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In Fiscal Year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.